Cowden rue missed chances but stop the rot

Cowden ended their five-game losing run on Saturday with a point against Annan in a game they really should have won.

The Blue Brazil created six clear chances with Brad Smith and newcomer on loan from Ross County, Blair Malcolm, outstanding in midfield but when the goal did come it came from 25 yards!

Cowdenbeath’s Cammy Muirhead twice went close in the opening half and Smith also shaved the Annan post, but two minutes from the break a slack piece of defending allowed Aiden Smith to shoot the visitors ahead.

The second period saw Cowden up their game and Muirhead twice should have scored before Kyle Miller’s 25-yarder gave Annan keeper Jim Atkinson no chance.

Smith could have got the second and sub Jordan Garden brought out a great save from Atkinson, but the hosts just could not get the winner.

New Cowden boss Gary Bollan was pleased with what he saw. He said “The players really showed me tremendous spirit and created so many chances.

“Indeed, they have set the standard, played really well and should have won the game with a bit to spare as we had so many opportunities.

“In the second half we totally dominated and carved them open on several occasions but just could not get the ball in the net until Kyle Miller fired in an excellent 25-yarder.

“We played with such intensity in the second period and that is what we will need in the coming weeks to get away from the foot of the table”.

The manager has already brought in central midfielder Malcolm and he was highly impressive against Annan. He also had trialist Ryan Scullion playing on the left wing and Bollan indicated he will have another look at him.

Miller said: “We created so many chances and yet it was a long-range shot that got us the goal, but if you are creating openings, goals will come.”

Kyle Miller: scored from 25 yards for Cowden.